Chrysotile, Arizona: Chrysotile Lost City Mine Tour

Discover the Historic Chrysotile Lost City Mine on a 3-Hour Off-Road Tour

The Chrysotile Lost City Mine Tour offers an engaging glimpse into Arizona’s mining past, all within a 3-hour adventure led by knowledgeable guides from Wilds of Arizona. For $150 per person, participants travel on off-road vehicles through rugged dirt roads, exploring remnants of a once-thriving mining town. The tour is perfect for those interested in history, scenic landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path experiences, though it involves some physical activity and vehicle travel over uneven terrain.

Starting from a designated parking lot just off the US 60, this tour combines historical site visits, breathtaking canyon vistas, and authentic mining relics. While it’s not suitable for small children under 4, wheelchair users, or recent surgery patients, it provides a comprehensive look at the Lost City of Chrysotile in a manageable time frame for most adventure enthusiasts.

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Key Points

• 3-hour guided off-road experience exploring Chrysotile’s mining history
• Visit the superintendent’s house, company store, and miner’s motel
• Drive through Ash Creek Canyon on rugged dirt roads with scenic views
• Tour the Powerhouse, Jail, and Post Office in the old mining town
• See historical mine entrances, tailings, and the Eldarado Mine from above
• Enjoy breathtaking canyon overlooks and waterfalls along the route

Meeting Point and Logistics in Chrysotile

The tour departs from a parking area next to US 60, where Wilds of Arizona guides await in branded shirts. The meeting coordinates are 33.74032974243164, -110.5667724609375. Participants should arrive prepared with sunglasses, hats, cameras, and sunscreen for protection against the sun. The tour involves off-road vehicle travel, so sturdy footwear and comfortable clothing are advisable.

The experience features a safety briefing before descending into Ash Creek Canyon, where the adventure begins. The guides lead you through dirt roads and rugged paths, making it a must for those comfortable with some bumpy rides and uneven terrain.

Exploring the Remnants of Chrysotile’s Mining Past

The tour’s core focus is on visiting the preserved structures like the superintendent’s house, a building that offers a glimpse into the lifestyle of mining management. Nearby, the Manager and Assistant Manager’s stone houses showcase the craftsmanship and importance of the mining operation.

A highlight is the drive to the top of the Eldarado Mine, where tailings piles and mine entrances stand as evidence of the area’s bustling past. The guide shares historical insights about the mine’s operations, giving context to the visible relics. Descending the mountain, visitors explore the old company store, now a window into daily life for miners.

In-Depth Look at the City Center: Powerhouse, Jail, and Post Office

The tour continues into the center of the old Chrysotile city, where structures like the Powerhouse, Jail, and Post Office stand as silent witnesses to the mining community’s history. These sites offer a tangible connection to the town’s past and are complemented by scenic views of the canyon.

Visitors can appreciate the historic architecture and imagine the bustling life that once thrived here. The Helicopter Pad and the entrance to Victory Mine provide additional context for the scale of mining operations. The Miner Motel, included in the tour, offers a closer look at the miners’ accommodation, displaying how they lived during the town’s active years.

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Scenic Overlooks and Waterfalls Along Ash Creek Canyon

One of the tour’s most striking features is the lower overlook of Ash Creek Canyon, where panoramic views reveal the rugged beauty of the landscape. The drive also takes you to a plateau overlooking waterfalls and swimming spots, perfect for photos and appreciating the natural surroundings.

The steep ascent to the highest clearing in the city rewards visitors with spectacular canyon vistas, showcasing the area’s expansive and untouched wilderness. These scenic stops provide a balance of history and nature, making the experience both visually stunning and educational.

The Historic Miner’s Motel and Ruins

A visit to the Miner’s Motel allows a peek into the living conditions of miners. The tour explores the building’s structure and discusses daily life in the mining town. Past the motel, the old city ruins tell stories of a once-bustling settlement now silent but evocative of its former vitality.

These sites add depth to the tour, emphasizing the human stories behind the relics. The ruins’ preservation and the surrounding landscape give a sense of stepping back into Arizona’s golden mining era.

The Drive Back and Overall Experience

After exploring the key sites and scenic views, the journey back involves driving 5 miles of dirt roads and ascending a quarter mile to the meeting point. The entire experience offers a well-paced mix of sightseeing, historical interpretation, and off-road adventure.

While the tour lasts around 3 hours, it provides a thorough look at the Lost City of Chrysotile without feeling rushed. The guides’ expertise ensures visitors receive informative commentary at each stop, enhancing the appreciation of both the history and the landscapes.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour appeals most to adventure seekers, history buffs, and nature lovers willing to navigate rough, uneven terrain. It’s especially suitable for those interested in Arizona’s mining heritage and scenic canyon landscapes. Not ideal for small children or individuals needing wheelchair access, but perfect for those comfortable with off-road vehicle rides and exploring remote historic sites.

Final Thoughts on the Chrysotile Lost City Mine Tour

The Chrysotile Lost City Mine Tour delivers a compact yet comprehensive experience of Arizona’s mining past, set against stunning canyon backdrops. The guided visits to historic buildings and mine sites provide a tangible connection to the stories of miners and their communities.

While it involves some physical activity and off-road driving, the scenic views and historical insights make the adventure worth it. This tour offers an engaging way to learn about the area’s industrial history while enjoying breathtaking natural scenery. It’s a solid choice for those looking for a mix of adventure, history, and scenic landscapes in a manageable timeframe.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It is not suitable for children under 4 years old due to the off-road vehicle rides and terrain.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours.

What is the price of the tour?
The cost is $150 per person.

Where does the tour start?
Participants meet at a parking lot just off US 60, with coordinates 33.74032974243164, -110.5667724609375.

Do I need to bring anything?
Yes, travelers should bring sunglasses, hats, cameras, and sunscreen.

Is it safe for people with recent surgeries?
No, it is not suitable for people with recent surgeries due to the physical nature of the tour.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What kind of vehicle is used?
The experience involves traveling in off-road vehicles specially prepared for rugged terrain.

Are guides available in languages other than English?
The tour is conducted in English.

What scenic spots will I see?
You will enjoy canyon overlooks, waterfalls, and scenic vistas of Ash Creek Canyon, along with historic mining structures.

This tour offers a rich blend of history and scenery, making it an engaging choice for anyone interested in exploring Arizona’s mining history in a scenic, adventure-filled setting.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby